Experience the power and passion of Johan Botha in this captivating live recording from the Wiener Staatsoper. Released on April 7, 2017, by Orfeo, "Johan Botha: Wiener Staatsoper Live" is a testament to the South African tenor's extraordinary vocal prowess and dramatic intensity. The album spans a little over an hour and twelve minutes, featuring a stunning selection of arias from some of the most beloved operas in the repertoire.
From the haunting beauty of Beethoven's "Fidelio" to the mystical allure of Wagner's "Parsifal," Botha's performances are nothing short of electrifying. His portrayal of the title role in "Tannhäuser" is particularly noteworthy, showcasing his ability to convey both vulnerability and heroism. The album also includes arias from "Lohengrin," "Die Meistersinger von Nürnberg," and "Ariadne auf Naxos," each one a masterclass in vocal technique and emotional depth.
Botha's collaboration with the Wiener Staatsoper orchestra and chorus adds an extra layer of richness to these performances. The live setting captures the energy and excitement of the opera house, making for an immersive listening experience. Whether you're a seasoned opera enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, this album is sure to leave a lasting impression.
2017 Orfeo2017 Orfeo
Tracks
Fidelio, Op. 72, Act II: Gott! Welch' Dunkel hier! - In des Lebens FrühlingstagenLudwig van Beethoven, Johan Botha, Vienna State Opera Orchestra, Seiji Ozawa
Tannhäuser, Act III: Hör an, Wolfram, hör an! Inbrunst im HerzenRichard Wagner, Johan Botha, Christian Gerhaher, Vienna State Opera Orchestra, Franz Welser-Möst
Lohengrin, Act III: Atmest du nicht mit mir die süßen Düfte - Höchstes VertrauenRichard Wagner, Johan Botha, Cheryl Studer, Vienna State Opera Orchestra, Simone Young
Die Meistersinger von Nürnberg (The Mastersingers of Nuremberg), Act III: Morgenlich leuchtend in rosigem ScheinRichard Wagner, Johan Botha, James Rutherford, Vienna State Opera Orchestra, Simone Young
Parsifal, Act II: Whe! Wehe! Was tat ich?Richard Wagner, Johan Botha, Angela Denoke, Vienna State Opera Orchestra, Donald Runnicles
Die Frau ohne Schatten, Op. 65, TrV 234, Act I: Amme! Wachst du?Richard Strauss, Johan Botha, Marjana Lipovsek, Vienna State Opera Orchestra, Giuseppe Sinopoli
Daphne, Op. 82, TrV 272: Zu dir nun, Knabe!Richard Strauss, Johan Botha, Ricarda Merbeth, Michael Schade, Vienna State Opera Orchestra, Semyon Bychkov
Ariadne auf Naxos, Op. 60, TrV 228a: Bin ich ein Gott, schuf mich ein GottRichard Strauss, Johan Botha, Soile Isokoski, Valentina Naforniță, Rachel Frenkel, Olga Bezsmertna, Daniela Fally, Vienna State Opera Orchestra, Christian Thielemann